We Tried Glassblowing in the ADK and You Should, Too
Visit Adirondack Glassblowing Studio in North Creek, NY.
If you're looking for one of the most creative, hands‑on and downright fun experiences in the Adirondacks, let me tell you about our fantastic visit to Adirondack Glassblowing Studio in North Creek, NY, near Gore Mountain.
Located on the banks of the Hudson River, just 30 minutes from Lake George, this standout studio, led by the talented Gregory Tomb, is the perfect escape for anyone eager to immerse themselves in the magic of glassblowing.
The glass-making experience.
We recently spent a morning at Greg’s Studio, and it was a lot of fun. From the moment we walked into the converted barn‑studio (complete with roaring furnace and industrial fans), Greg and his team made us feel welcome, safe, and excited.
Adirondack glass-making projects.
After a safety talk and an impressive demo, we got to choose our projects—selecting items like glass paperweights, hearts, and mini pumpkins—and then worked one-on-one with Greg to shape them.
The heat, the glow, the hum of creativity—it was all intoxicating and immersive. We left not only with beautiful custom glass pieces but also with a genuine artistic memory we’ll cherish forever.
Meet Gregory Tomb: skilled artist & teacher.
Gregory Tomb isn’t just a glassblower—he’s an adventurous spirit and seasoned artist. His fascination with glass began in childhood, shaped by visits to the Corning Museum of Glass.
Photo courtesy Gregory Tomb.
His formal journey began at Hartwick College (Class of 2000), majoring in Art with a focus in Sculpture & Glassblowing.
He apprenticed in Boulder, CO, and Urban Glass in NYC, and later rose to team leader at the renowned Simon Pearce’s production studio (2004–06).
Greg further refined his skills in the Bay Area and built a reputation through juried art shows and design recognition.
In 2017, Greg built his mobile glass studio in Scottsdale, AZ, where he spends his winters, and returns each summer to North Creek as the Town of Johnsburg’s Artist-in-Residence. His North Creek studio, located directly in town, is part of a regional arts mission that helps bring glass art to the Adirondacks.
Glassblowing experiences.
ADK Glass offers a range of experiences to suit all ages and interests:
One‑hour individual sessions: pick your piece (pumpkin, heart, vase—projects change seasonally), select colors, and work under Greg’s guidance to make your glass art.
Small group sessions or special events are great for friends, families, or team-building groups.
Fundraiser events: like the local Glass Pumpkin Patch, where Greg and guests create hundreds of pumpkins to raise money for nonprofits such as the Depot Museum or nearby Indian Lake Theater.
Hot Glass, Cool Jazz events: Thursday evenings after the Farmer’s Market bring music, craft demos and a festive atmosphere.
Experiences are open to anyone aged 7+, no prior experience required. They emphasize safety, artistic expression, and really giving folks a true glassmaking journey from start to finish.
Why glassblowing in North Creek feels so right.
North Creek, situated at the foot of Gore Mountain and within the Adirondack Park, is home to a strong, creative, and adventurous ethos, much like the energy of outdoor explorers who come here to hike, raft, ski, and bike.
Glassblowing channels fire and motion. Greg’s studio transforms a legacy industrial barn into a creative epicenter, tying physical adventure to artistic exploration: glass gathering from molten lava-hot furnaces, shaping with tools, and cooling in annealers—it's a visceral, kinetic art form that mirrors the Adirondack spirit.
The community has warmly embraced glassblowing as a cultural anchor: Greg is officially the artist-in-residence, making glass art accessible to visitors and locals alike via classes, gallery showings, and public fundraisers.
Four reasons to love glass blowing.
If you visit the Adirondack Glassblowing studio, here's what awaits.
Personal creativity with expert guidance: Greg is generous, encouraging, patient—he’s taught everyone from young children to ninety‑year‑olds, including folks who have hearing loss, visual impairment or may also be non-verbal.
A memorable souvenir: your finished piece is a one‑of‑a‑kind keepsake that you helped create with your own hands.
A safe, supportive environment: safety is top priority—glasses provided, tools handled with care, and explicit instruction at every stage
Community spirit: The studio contributes to local arts, supports nonprofits, and seamlessly integrates into the larger tapestry of North Creek’s cultural offerings.
Adirondack Glass Blowing Pumpkin Patch Benefit.
If you’re visiting the Adirondacks and want something truly special, do not miss Adirondack Glassblowing and Studio in North Creek. With Greg Tomb’s passion, expertise and warm teaching style, this studio offers a rare chance to work with molten glass, shape something beautiful with your own hands, and leave with a memory that glows—quite literally.
We walked away with great memories and huge smiles; our glass masterpieces were an afterthought.
Seriously: go, get creative, get hot, and get hooked—it’s one of the most fulfilling, artistic experiences in the region.
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Upcoming events in the North Creek and Gore Mountain area.
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